Lecture Notes: Study of Matthew - Chapter 7

Introduction

• Continuing study in the book of Matthew, focusing on Chapter 7.
• Discussion revolves around the Sermon on the Mount.
• Focus on the first five verses.

Key Scripture

• Matthew 7:1-5: Do not judge, or you too will be judged.
  • Judgment principle tied to the measure you use.
  • Parable of the speck and plank to illustrate hypocritical judgment.

Spiritual Principle: Sowing and Reaping

• Concept Explanation:
  • What you plant, you will reap—common biblical theme.
  • Applies to behavior: judgmental behavior will invite judgment in return.
  • Highlights the stability of this principle, equating it to the law of gravity.

Positive and Negative Aspects of Judgment

• Judgment in Sowing and Reaping:
  • Negative: Judgmental attitude leads to being judged by others.
  • Positive: Showing mercy and forgiveness yields the same from others.

Personal Reflection

• Example of sowing seeds of faithfulness during a challenging period.
• An entire year spent serving a church community led to reaping long-term faithfulness.

Judgment and Hypocrisy

• Hypocritical Judgment:
  • Judging others while ignoring one's own faults.
  • Jesus emphasizes removing the 'plank' in one's own eye first.

Distinction Between Disagreement and Condemnation

• Misunderstanding in Society:
  • Society often equates disagreement with condemnation.
  • Example: Disagreeing with actions does not equal condemning the person.

Call to Non-Judgmental Behavior for Christians

• Christians' Role:
  • To act differently from the world.
  • To not embody judgmental stereotypes often associated with Christians.

Scriptural Context for Judgment

• Not a blanket prohibition against judgment.
• Need for Judgment in Life:
  • Identifying false prophets by their 'fruit' requires judgment.
  • Making righteous judgments encouraged by Jesus.

Importance of Discernment

• Critical Thinking and Discernment:
  • Encouraged to judge and discern rightly through a biblical lens.
  • A.W. Tozer's insight on lacking discernment in the church today.

Application of Biblical Wisdom

• Biblical Literacy:
  • Encouraged to understand and interpret life through Scripture.
  • Importance of a biblical worldview over a worldly perspective.

Conclusion: Speaking the Truth in Love

• Ephesians 4:15: Encouragement to speak the truth in love.
• Balancing truth with love in communication, especially in controversial topics.

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• Reflection: How can we apply these teachings to transform our community interactions and personal growth?